If you own a dog, chances are you’ve caught your dog sprawled out in a warm patch of sunlight, eyes half-closed and clearly loving life. Many dogs love to sleep in sunny spots, whether they’re on the living room rug or a quiet corner in the backyard. While it might just look like another way to relax, there’s actually more going on when your pup chooses to soak up the sun. Here’s everything you need to know about why your furry friend sunbathes.
Why Do Dogs Sunbathe?
The simplest explanation for why dogs sunbathe is that it feels good, but there’s more to it than this. The warmth of the sun helps their muscles relax, eases joint pain, and gives them some much-needed vitamin D. Many dogs naturally seek out the sun as part of their daily routine, often napping in similar bright spots around the same time each day.
Your dog’s tendency to sunbathe also ties back to their natural instincts. In the wild, canines would often lie in sunny areas to stay warm and conserve energy. Your dog’s ancestors also basked in the sun to dry off after it rained and to kill parasites in their fur. This behavior has carried over to our domesticated pets, even if they’re lounging on a plush rug instead of a patch of dirt.
Is Sunbathing Beneficial for My Pup?
Sunbathing is associated with several health benefits for dogs, especially when it’s done safely. Here are some of the benefits Fido receives from lounging in the sun.
Sunbathing Promotes Vitamin D Synthesis
Lying in the sun is an excellent source of vitamin D for our furry friends. Because of this, sun exposure can support your dog’s muscle, bone, and immune system health. While it’s not their primary source of vitamin D for dogs, sunlight still plays a helpful role in keeping your furry friend healthy.
Lying in the Sun Boosts Fido’s Mood
Sunlight can also give your dog a mood boost. Time in the sun can help increase serotonin levels, which are associated with feelings of well-being. This can leave your dog feeling calmer, happier, and more relaxed. It’s one reason you might notice your pup seems extra content after a good sunbathing session.
Sunbathing Regulates Body Temperature
For dogs with thin coats or lower body fat, sunbathing is a natural way to stay warm. Lying in the sun can help them regulate their body temperature without needing to move around much. Older dogs or those with joint issues may also find that lying in the sun helps ease arthritis pain and stiffness.
Potential Risks of Sunbathing for Dogs
As enjoyable as it is, sunbathing does come with some risks for dogs, especially when they spend too much time in direct sunlight. Dogs can get sunburned, particularly on areas with less fur, like the nose, ears, and belly. Lighter-colored dogs and breeds with short coats are especially at risk, which is why it’s important to protect your dog from getting sunburned.
Too much sun exposure can also lead to overheating. Dogs don’t sweat the way we do, so they rely on panting and shade to stay cool. If they’re out in the sun for too long without breaks, they can become dehydrated or develop heat exhaustion. To prevent these risks, carefully monitor how long your pup spends outside in the sun and encourage frequent breaks and hydration. It’s also a good idea to get a dog-safe sunscreen for your furry friend.
Soaking up the sun is something many dogs naturally enjoy, and it’s easy to understand why! When done safely, sunbathing can support your dog’s mood, help them stay warm, and even contribute to their overall health. A little sunshine can go a long way in making your pup feel happy, relaxed, and feeling their best.